Heading into last June's draft, two players who were thought of as possible top overall picks were Markelle Fultz and Lonzo Ball. With the Philadelphia 76ers owning the first selection, they had the opportunity to add either point guard, who will add more talent and depth to their young roster. The team ultimately chose the Washington product and consensus top pick, with Ball landing with the Los Angeles Lakers.
When asked what his thoughts were about the possibility of playing for Philadelphia, the 20-year-old former UCLA star admitted that it crossed his mind that time. However, he also added, via Tom Moore of the Bucks County Courier Times, that he didn't “really think about it.”
Lonzo Ball from #Lakers morning shootaround on the possibility he would've been drafted by the #Sixers: 'I knew I had a chance to, but I never really thought about it.'
— Tom Moore (@TomMoorePhilly) December 7, 2017
As it turned out, both players have been struggling to start their pro careers with Fultz battling a shoulder injury, while Ball continues having difficulty finding his shooting touch. They are in similar situations, as they are part of young and talented teams, that are considered the NBA's teams of the future.
There is no doubt that both of them are very talented players. Ball has played more games so far, and despite his shooting woes, has showcased that he can rebound and pass well, and should remain the team's starter moving forward. As he gets even better, the Lakers will only reap the rewards of drafting him and making his dream come true of playing for his hometown team.